Watch George Jones Join Merle Haggard for an Unforgettable Duet

Earlier this year, country fans across the globe were shattered by the death of Merle Haggard. Although he may be gone, his long life full of incredible music still lives on. During his stellar career, he recorded and performed countless collaborations with fellow country artists.

In 1997, some of his closest friends and favorite collaborators joined him on stage for the TNN special Workin’ Man – A Tribute to Merle Haggard. When it came time to perform his signature track “The Way I Am,” George Jones joined him for a duet that is still completely unforgettable.

Initially led by Jones, who seems to be giving a slight impersonation of the Hag for the rendition, the performance is an obvious crowdpleaser. Still, the song doesn’t truly take off until Haggard brings in his signature vocals to the mix.

Although many of us are still mourning the loss of Haggard and Jones, who passed in 2013, it’s always important to look back at the incredible musical legacy they left behind. Even performances like this, which was seen as a lighthearted and fun tribute, are now part of a bigger time capsule of music that fans will continue to enjoy for generations to come.